Welcome to the Historic Thomas Center. What was once a private residence and hotel is now a cultural events center for the community and surrounding areas of Gainesville, Florida. This Mediterranean Revival-style building is the setting for two magnificent art galleries, multiple restored period rooms and numerous historical exhibits. Its meeting rooms and performance spaces have become sought-after venues for weddings, conferences, and social events.

The Thomas Center provides a versatile space which contributes to the cultural, civic and social life of Gainesville. It has been called the perfect blend of elegance and southern charm—let us tell you more...

Social Functions

Come see why dozens of couples select us every year to host the most important day of their lives. The center is available to host weddings, banquets, formals, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, quinceañeras or your very special occasion.

The west veranda is the perfect introduction to the Thomas Center before your guests are ushered graciously inside. There too, you can impress your out-of-town visitors with cocktails overlooking lush southern gardens, original fountain and rose, camellia and azalea plantings.

The Spanish Court, situated at the heart of the Thomas Center, rises two-stories to a full skylight. It is surrounded by a colonnade and second story Mezzanine area. This room is perfect for meetings, banquets, receptions or luncheons. Your guests will talk for years to come about the time they danced the night away under the stars in this enchanting space.

Wedding ceremonies can take place in the West Gardens under our towering Live Oaks. Ceremonies can also take place in the unique and secluded Turtle Court with its Romeo and Juliet-style balcony. This sunken and romantic courtyard is perfect for weddings, cocktail receptions, intimate family gatherings and much more!

Sweet Serendipity Photography

Verve Studio Photography

Cultural Events

The City of Gainesville Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs offers a co-sponsorship program to local artists for cultural events held at the Thomas Center. If a proposed cultural event fits within the specific parameters of this program, the organizers are eligible to pay reduced rental rates. The Spanish Court, with its glass ceiling, offers excellent acoustics and is the most unique performance space in Gainesville. Festivals, recitals, play readings and concerts all occur regularly for the benefit of the community.

City of Gainesville photos by Gary Paul

Meet, Plan and Connect...

The Long Gallery adjoins the Spanish Court with five sets of double doors on the north wall. This inviting room is fully paneled in walnut, has two fireplaces and carpeting.

The facility also offers two smaller, fully restored conference rooms for trainings or board retreats for less than 20 people. With all these choices, you can be assured no two events will ever look the same!

Your meeting attendees will always remember any seminar or retreat that they attend at the Thomas Center. We offer your organization flexibility, affordability and one of the most unique settings available. The center features charming banquet and meeting rooms enriched by 1920's period history, gallery exhibits and outdoor gardens.

The Thomas Center facilities staff will be happy to answer any of your questions and also provide a tour of the facility. For further information on scheduling an event at the Thomas Center, please contact:Erica Chatman, CMP
Station 30, P.O. Box 490
Gainesville, FL 32602
(352) 393- 8539
Email: chatmanej@cityofgainesville.org